Norma Ponder

"TO VIEW VIDEO TRIBUTE-CLICK HERE"

Norma Jean Ponder, 68, of Pleasant Hill, Missouri, was born Thursday, May 25, 1939 in Jackson County, Missouri, the daughter of Luther E. and Lilly B. (Cruise) Mathis. She departed this life Wednesday, February 13, 2008 at her home in Pleasant Hill.

On July 4, 1991, Norma was united in marriage to Lawrence Leo Ponder in Pleasant Hill, Missouri.

Norma was employed at Calmar Industries in Lee's Summit for over 29 years retiring in 2001.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by 3 sons, Clarence E. (Beagle) Bendt, Ricky Bendt, and Larry Bendt; and 1 sister Joanna Linder.

She is survived by her husband Leo of the home; 1 daughter Terry (and Sergio) Saling-Torres, of Palm Springs, California; 2 grandchildren, Jeremy (and Kimberly) Bendt of Canyon City, Colorado, and Tisha (and James) Crowder of Holden, Missouri; 2 great-grandchildren, Sage Crowder and Danyka Bendt; 1 step-daughter, Lori Brock of Cleveland, Missouri; 2 step-Grandchildren, Jon (and Kim) Kirby of Cleveland and Jessica Kirby of Harrisonville; 1 step great-granddaughter, Grace Kirby; 1 unborn step great-grandson Ethan Kirby; 2 brothers, Kenny Mitchell and Joey (and Joyce) Mitchell both of Osceola, Missouri; 1 sister Margaret (Sis) Mathis of Lowry City, Missouri; 1 brother-in-law, Gilbert Linder of Garden City, Missouri; 1 daughter-in-law Betsy Bendt of Osceola, other relatives and many, many, friends.

Cremation has been accorded. A memorial service was held Monday, February 18, 2008. Reverend Charlie Louvau officiated.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home.